Phoenix’s 1922 Memorial Hall renovated and reopened

[Source: Nicole McGregor, 12 News Today] — An historic part of Phoenix opens to the public this week. Memorial Hall was part of the Phoenix Indian School when it began in 1922. Closed in the early 90’s, it sat in disarray, until now. The $5 million project was not a small undertaking; most of the funding came from bonds passed in 2001 and 2006. The idea was to renovate it, not re-do it. The goal was to retain much of the integrity of the building. The original wood floors remain and so do about 40 percent of the ceiling tiles. Even the same bricks can be seen on the outside where students once carved their names.

Back in the 20’s the Memorial Hall was used for graduation, recitals and assemblies for the school. Regional Park Manager Dorothy Blakely says it is just one of three buildings which still stand at Steele Indian School Park. The other two, the dining hall and elementary/band building will also be renovated, but only on the outside. Memorial Hall will be available for rent and used for a musical venue when opportunities arise. Call 602-534-8198 if you’re interested. The grand opening is this week. It’s open for public tours Wednesday, October 29 starting at 6:30 p.m. (Click here for video.)

[Source: Betty Reid, Arizona Republic] — About 200 people attended the grand opening of the restored Memorial Hall at Steele Indian School Park in central Phoenix on Wednesday night. It cost nearly $5 million and took two years to restore the building. The auditorium, which seats 350, is part of the old Phoenix Indian School property. It was built in 1922 and named to honor those who served during World War I.